I have known Chris since our days as kids at P.S.97. Our moms were both volunteers at the school and in our classrooms. We were always in the same class; always lived around the corner.  As teenagers, we hung out in the same group.  A group of kids/teens that I will always love.  Chris Elfers is part of my history.  He was always kind to me. Enough so that when we received our "autograph books" in 6th grade, there was the first page. It asked our favorite songs, friends, etc.  It asked who our hero was? I put Chris Elfers.  He always stuck up for me.  I wasn't bullied, but as kids do, kids called other kids names. He never made a mean remark.  He was who I put as my hero. He was quiet, strong, and confident. When I moved to Florida in 1989, I gave him that page. He laughed at me with that laugh that only Chris had and he hugged me. I wish I still had that page.  Chris was my friend. The last time I saw him was my last real visit to see friends in about 2000.  I don't feel good about that.  I don't like that so much time went by and I am ashamed that I did not keep in touch.  But I know in my heart, that I never forgot.  I will never forget.  Chris Elfers was a good boy and a good man.  I will miss him terribly and I will never forget my friend.  He is in Heaven, he is at peace, and he is free.  And now I can talk to him whenever I want.  I love you, Christopher Martin Elfers.